After a car accident, your health and healing should be the primary priority. Even so, many people delay medical treatment because they “feel fine,” “don't have the money,” or “don't think they need to see a doctor.” Always err on the side of caution when it comes to your health after a car accident. You may feel fine directly following the collision, but, remember, adrenaline is great at masking symptoms. Many people don't feel injuries for hours or days after the car accident. Getting medical treatment right after the incident could be a life-or-death decision. Dangerous injuries are often disguised by the post-accident hype of adrenaline. Internal bleeding, severe whiplash, head trauma, and more could be hidden under the surface. Getting checked out by a medical professional is highly recommended. Finally, don't let the fear of a hefty medical bill stop you from seeking care. It is the at-fault party's responsibility to pay for the losses incurred as a result of the accident, including your medical bills, property damage, and lost wages.
In this article, we'll discuss getting medical care after a car accident and the best hospitals in Santa Fe and surrounding areas, based on various data sources. If you've been hurt in an accident, don't delay medical treatment – our car accident lawyers will come to your hospital room to discuss your case at no cost to you. Schedule your free consultation by calling or texting 602-345-1818. You may also fill out our convenient online form on this webpage.
Emergency Rooms and Urgent Care Centers in Santa Fe
You have a few options when it comes to getting medical care post auto accident, depending on the severity and urgency of your injuries. If you are in immediate need of medical attention, you should always call 911. Some people hesitate to use ambulatory services after an accident, but if you need immediate medical attention, you should let the ambulance transport you. Ambulatory service costs are also a responsibility of the at-fault party's insurance company. If you are the at-fault party, don't delay medical care; you may be entitled to some level of reimbursement depending on the facts of your case. If you need care and transport via an ambulance, take it, and worry about the cost and reimbursement later.
Even if your injuries aren't necessarily instantly life-threatening, sometimes injuries can progress quickly and become life-threatening. Getting care as soon as possible is vital to your safety and wellbeing. If your injuries are not critical, you may weigh your options. If you're trying to decide whether to visit the ER, urgent care, or wait to see your primary care provider, there are a few elements to consider:
- Quality of care - Of course, you can expect acceptably adequate treatment at an urgent care center, however, ERs are known for having some of the best doctors in the area.
- Specialized care and testing - ERs are equipped with comprehensive and triage capabilities. From x-rays, MRIs, and diagnostic lab tests to surgical and overnight care capabilities, depending on your immediate needs, the ER may be a better fit. If your injuries are not life-threatening, the ER will likely refer you to your primary care provider.
- Expenses - While this shouldn't be an immediate consideration should you need emergency or swift care, in terms of cost, ERs are generally significantly more costly than urgent care centers.
- Wait times - Generally, wait times are much higher at ERs if the patient is not in critical condition.
Keeping up with Doctor Appointments Following the Accident
Can you wait for an appointment with your primary care physician? While a long wait for an appointment may not be conducive to your overall health and healing, if your injuries aren't severe, you may decide to wait to see your usual doctor. Our car accident lawyers always advise erring on the safe side and at least getting swiftly examined after the accident. However, if your injuries aren't immediately concerning, the ER may examine you and advise you to make an appointment with your doctor. Seeking consistent medical care after an accident is also a good idea. Maintaining doctor appointments may be crucial to facilitate proper recovery and ensure you have the documentation in place to prove your losses. Similar to your immediate ER bills, the at-fault party will be responsible for your continued medical expenses until you recover.
Google, Find the Best Hospitals Near Me
According to the Santa Fe New Mexican, in 2019, the US Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) gave a 4-star (out of 5 stars) rating to six New Mexico hospitals:
- Christus St. Vincent in Santa Fe
- Lovelace Medical Center in Albuquerque
- Lovelace Westside Hospital in Albuquerque
- Nor-Lea Hospital District in Lovington
- Lincoln County Medical Center in Ruidoso
- Presbyterian Española Hospital
The rating determinations by CMS included several metrics: the safety of care, readmission, patient experience, mortality, the effectiveness of care, timeliness of care, and efficient use of medical imaging.
Car Accident Lawyers Who Will Come to You
If you've been injured in a car accident, don't delay medical care. Our car accident lawyers will come to you for your free consultation – if you're in the hospital, urgent care, etc. You may also opt to have your free initial consultation remotely via a virtual meeting. Let us help you get the compensation you need and deserve. Your physical and financial recovery is too important to put on the back burner. Get in touch with us by texting or calling 602-345-1818, or you can fill out our convenient online form here.